Getting a passport could become more difficult

BREWER, Maine (NEWS CENTER) -- Policy changes by the State Department could make getting a passport more difficult.

Starting May first residents trying to get their passport processed may have to look somewhere else. The State Department will no longer allow offices that process vital records like a birth certificate or marriage license to process passports or passport cards.

This means 25 municipal offices across the state will have to cancel the service. Brewer city clerk Howard Kroll says the State Department is requiring the change because of the potential for fraud and identity theft.

The policy change does not affect a residents ability to process their passport at their local post office.

To find the nearest passport processing office in your area click here.